Nutrient re-distribution and availability in ameliorated and cultivated soils in the Western Region

By June 30 2021, new knowledge on the impact of mechanical soil amelioration practices on nutrient re-distribution through the soil profile and the impact on crop demand for nutrition and its better prediction will result in better fertiliser decisions.

This GRDC investment is to:

• By June 30 2021, conduct a series of experiments on the major soils types in the Western Region to understand the effect of mechanical soil amelioration on nutrient re-distribution and its impact on crop nutrient supply. The research will focus on;

• The effect of different mechanical soil amelioration practices on the re- distribution of plant-available nutrition through the soil profile.

• Changes in soil supply and crop response to fertiliser in mechanically ameliorated soils.

• New soil testing methodology to accurately determine plant-available nutrition in ameliorated soils.

• Collaboration with the ‘Improved sampling methods to better predict nutrient availability and supply of soils in the Western Region’ project is required.

ii. Use revised soil tests and crop response information to provide improved fertiliser requirements predictions.

• At least two peer reviewed journal articles published by June 2021.

• Annually, for the life of the project, extend the research to at least 300 growers, advisers and industry professionals.

• By March 2018, and each subsequent year, an Annual Progress Report detailing the key findings of the project for the reporting period.

By June 30 2021, a Final Technical Report amalgamating the key findings, new knowledge and conclusions of the project to provide an overall interpretation of the work.